Subcontractor in deadly KC blast lacked permit

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Kansas City officials say a cable company subcontractor suspected of rupturing a natural gas line before a deadly restaurant explosion didn't have an approved permit for the work.

A Missouri Gas Energy official has said that Heartland Midwest reported hitting a natural gas line with an underground borer more than an hour before Tuesday night's explosion. The blast and ensuing fire leveled JJ's restaurant near a busy outdoor shopping area called the Country Club Plaza. One person was killed and 15 others were injured.

Four of the injured remained hospitalized Monday at the University of Kansas Hospital, including one person who was in critical condition.

Heartland Midwest said last week that it's cooperating with authorities.